Jobs at Wichita State University (WSU) represent exciting opportunities for academics, researchers, and professionals passionate about innovation and applied learning. Located in Wichita, Kansas, this public research university emphasizes entrepreneurship and real-world impact, making it a prime destination for higher education careers. Whether you're eyeing faculty positions, research roles, or administrative jobs, WSU's dynamic environment in the heart of the Air Capital of the World offers unique prospects. The university's main careers portal at jobs.wichita.edu lists current openings, from tenure-track professors to specialized positions at the National Institute for Aviation Research (NIAR).
WSU employs nearly 1,300 full-time staff at NIAR alone, alongside faculty and student workers across its campuses. With a focus on collaboration, the university attracts talent eager to shape the future in fields like aerospace, engineering, business, and health professions. Employee reviews on sites like Glassdoor and Indeed highlight competitive salaries, professional growth, and a supportive culture, positioning WSU as a top employer in Kansas higher education.
Founded in 1895 as Fairfield College, Wichita State University evolved into a municipal university in 1926 and joined the Kansas state system in 1964. Today, it stands as a Carnegie-classified R2 doctoral research university with over 16,000 students. This rich history informs its job landscape, where roles often blend teaching, research, and community engagement. The university's growth, particularly in aviation and advanced manufacturing through NIAR established in 1986, has created thousands of jobs tied to industry partnerships with companies like Boeing and Spirit AeroSystems.
Recent developments as of 2026 include expanded research funding and new facilities, boosting demand for faculty and research positions. WSU's commitment to applied learning means jobs here go beyond traditional academia, offering hands-on projects that contribute to Wichita's economy and global advancements.
Wichita State University offers diverse employment categories tailored to various career stages. Faculty positions include assistant, associate, and full professors in departments like aerospace engineering, business, and nursing. Research roles, prominent at NIAR, encompass engineers, scientists, and technicians working on composites testing and digital engineering. Administrative jobs cover HR, IT, and facilities, while student positions provide part-time work as tutors, lab assistants, or office aides.
For a deeper dive into university job types, explore categories like adjunct professor jobs or research assistant positions. WSU Tech, affiliated with the main campus, adds technical and trade roles. Recent listings show over 80 openings on platforms like Indeed, including process technicians and building managers, reflecting the university's broad needs.
To navigate jobs at Wichita State University effectively, understanding key terms is essential. Tenure-track position: A faculty role leading to permanent employment after a probationary period, typically requiring research, teaching, and service. Adjunct faculty: Part-time instructors hired per course, ideal for flexible schedules. Postdoctoral researcher (postdoc): A temporary position post-PhD for advanced research training, common in NIAR projects. Grantsmanship: The skill of securing funding from agencies like NSF or NASA, crucial for research roles. These definitions clarify pathways in WSU's academic hiring.
Securing jobs at WSU demands specific credentials. Faculty positions generally require a PhD or terminal degree in the relevant field, such as a Doctor of Engineering for aerospace roles. Research positions at NIAR prioritize expertise in areas like additive manufacturing, crash dynamics, or propulsion systems, often needing a master's or PhD with hands-on lab experience.
Preferred experience includes peer-reviewed publications, prior grants (e.g., from FAA or DoD), and industry collaborations. Skills and competencies emphasize interdisciplinary work, data analytics tools like MATLAB, project management, and communication for grant proposals. For administrative roles, a bachelor's plus relevant certifications suffice, but advanced degrees boost competitiveness. WSU values candidates who align with its innovation ethos, such as those with patents or startup experience.
The hiring process at Wichita State University begins online via the university jobs portal. Submit a cover letter, CV, transcripts, and references. Applications are screened for fit, followed by phone interviews, virtual panels, and on-campus visits with teaching demos or research presentations. The timeline spans 2-6 months, with offers including negotiation on salary, startup funds, and spousal hires.
Actionable tips: Tailor materials to WSU's applied focus—highlight quantifiable impacts like 'Led $500K grant yielding 3 publications.' Use how to write a winning academic CV guidance. Network at conferences or via LinkedIn with NIAR faculty. Prepare for questions on entrepreneurship and diversity contributions. Track status via the portal and follow up politely.
Wichita State University prioritizes diversity through programs like Shocker START, which supports recruitment of underrepresented groups in STEM. The Office of Diversity and Inclusion hosts workshops, mentorships, and affinity groups for women in engineering and LGBTQ+ faculty. Recent efforts include bias training in hiring and partnerships with HBCUs for pipeline programs. In 2026, WSU reports increased hires from diverse backgrounds, fostering an inclusive environment where 40% of NIAR staff are women or minorities. These initiatives ensure equitable opportunities across all jobs.
Work-life balance at WSU is praised for flexible hours, especially in research roles allowing summer off for faculty. Benefits include health insurance, retirement matching, tuition waivers, and wellness perks like gym access and EAP counseling. Glassdoor ratings average 4/5 for balance, with employees noting collaborative teams and low burnout.
Campus life in Wichita thrives with Shocker athletics, cultural events, and innovation hubs. Proximity to parks, museums, and an affordable housing market (median home $200K) enhances appeal. Faculty enjoy sabbaticals, professional development funds, and family-friendly policies. NIAR's state-of-the-art labs offer engaging work, while student interactions energize teaching roles. Overall, WSU blends professional fulfillment with Kansas living's pace.
As of 2026, WSU boasts strong rankings in regional universities (top 20 Midwest per U.S. News) and NIAR's $100M+ annual research portfolio. Graduation rates hover at 50%, with 90% employment for grads influencing faculty hiring needs. Job growth in aviation sustains demand, with 139 openings on Glassdoor. Salaries: Assistant professors ~$80K, NIAR engineers $90K+.
Jobs at Wichita State University offer innovation-driven paths. Explore higher ed career advice, browse university jobs, or post a job if hiring. For faculty or research, check higher ed jobs in faculty and research jobs. Start your journey today.
